Parking Lot Snow: Top Tips and Safety in 2024

Why Parking Lot Snow Removal is Crucial

Parking lot snow removal is a key task for any business owner or property manager facing winter weather. Ensuring your parking lot is clear of snow and ice can:

• Prevent accidents and injuries
• Maintain accessibility for customers and employees
• Protect your asphalt from damage
• Keep your business looking professional

Leaving snow and ice unattended can lead to various safety and operational issues, from slippery conditions causing falls to vehicle accidents. Additionally, not clearing snow promptly can accelerate wear-and-tear on your parking lot, making it necessary to repave or repair more often.

According to winter safety expert Adam Hearlson, “Immediate snow removal and ice management are so important after a winter storm.” These factors highlight the necessity of having a robust snow removal plan in place.

I’m Sal Musto, owner of SalCorp Landscaping & Construction. With over two decades of hands-on experience in parking lot snow removal and winter safety measures, I’ve helped numerous businesses steer the challenges of winter weather.

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Preparing for Snow in Parking Lots

Essential Equipment for Snow Removal

When it comes to parking lot snow removal, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s a rundown of the essential tools you’ll need:

• Snow Plows: Ideal for large areas. They come in various sizes and types, including truck-mounted plows and skid-steer plows.
• Snow Blowers: Excellent for removing deep or heavy snow. Two-stage models are more powerful and suitable for commercial use.
• Tire Chains: Provide extra traction for vehicles, making it easier to steer icy or snowy terrain.
• Deflating Tires: Slightly deflating your tires can increase the surface area in contact with the ground, improving traction.

Proper preparation and planning ensure you’re not caught off guard. Before the snow season begins, make sure your equipment is in good working order and that you have backup supplies of fuel and de-icing materials.

Safety Measures During Snow Removal

Safety should always be a top priority during parking lot snow removal. Here are some key safety measures to keep in mind:

• Slowing Down: Always operate equipment at a safe speed. Snow and ice reduce traction, making it easier to lose control.
• Avoiding Obstacles: Be aware of hidden hazards such as curbs, speed bumps, and debris that may be concealed by snow.
• Proper Gear: Wear appropriate winter gear, including insulated gloves, boots with good traction, and high-visibility clothing.
• Visibility: Ensure all lights on your snow removal equipment are functioning properly. Use additional lighting if necessary to improve visibility during early morning or late evening operations.

The longer you leave snow and ice on your lot, the higher the risk of accidents. Immediate snow removal and ice management are crucial for maintaining a safe environment.

By integrating these preparation and safety measures, you can efficiently manage parking lot snow and keep your property accessible and safe during winter months.

Next, we’ll dive into the most efficient snow removal techniques to ensure your lot remains clear and safe.

Efficient Snow Removal Techniques

Effective snow removal isn’t just about having the right equipment; it’s also about using the best techniques. Let’s explore two highly effective methods: angle plowing with wings and backdragging.

Angle Plowing with Wings

Angle plowing is a technique where the plow is angled to one side, creating windrows—long piles of snow that are pushed to the edge of the lot. This technique is highly efficient because it allows you to plow in both directions. You move snow from the center to the edge on the first pass, and then further away on the return pass.

However, traditional angle plowing has a limitation: snow tends to trickle off the sides of the plow, reducing efficiency. This is where wings come into play. Adding wings to your plow increases containment, allowing you to take a full bite on each pass without losing snow off the sides.

According to a real-time demonstration, angle plowing with wings can be up to 50% more efficient than using a standard, rubber-edged pusher. This setup not only saves time but also reduces the need for back-cleaning, making it ideal for both small and large lots.

Backdragging and Pushback Techniques

Backdragging is another crucial technique, especially for areas with tight spaces or numerous obstacles. This method involves pulling snow backward with the plow, which is particularly useful for clearing snow close to buildings, curbs, and other obstacles.

Pushback techniques are often used in conjunction with backdragging. This involves pushing the snow to a designated location for easier removal later. For example, in a lot with multiple obstacles, you might backdrag snow into an open area and then use a larger piece of equipment to push it to the edge of the lot.

Combining Techniques for Maximum Efficiency

In practice, combining these techniques can offer the best results. For instance, you can start with angle plowing to create windrows and then use backdragging to clear snow from tight spaces. Finally, employ pushback techniques to move the accumulated snow to a designated pile location.

Using these efficient snow removal techniques ensures that your parking lot snow is managed effectively, keeping your property safe and accessible throughout the winter months.

Next, we’ll discuss the best practices for parking lot snow management, including how to designate snow pile locations and continuously remove snow during storms.

Best Practices for Parking Lot Snow Management

Effective snow management is more than just plowing. It involves strategic planning and continuous action to keep your parking lot safe and accessible.

Designating Snow Pile Locations

Knowing your lot is crucial for efficient snow management. Before the snow hits, identify designated snow pile locations. These are areas where snow can be safely stored without obstructing pathways, entrances, or parking spaces.

Key Points:
– Avoid obstructions: Choose locations away from buildings, fire hydrants, and high-traffic areas. This reduces the risk of accidents and ensures clear access.
– Plan for melting: Ensure that snow piles are placed where melting snow won’t cause flooding or ice formation in critical areas.
– Maximize space: Use corners or less-used parts of the lot to store snow. This keeps the main areas clear for vehicles and pedestrians.

Continuous Snow Removal During Storms

Plowing with the storm is a proactive approach to snow removal. Instead of waiting for the storm to end, start plowing as soon as the snow begins to accumulate. This prevents the snow from compacting and makes it easier to manage.

Key Points:
– Keep up with snowfall: Regularly plow the lot as snow falls to avoid buildup. This ensures that the lot remains usable throughout the storm.
– Avoiding buildup: Continuous plowing prevents large snow accumulations that are harder to remove and can cause damage to the lot’s surface.
– Safety first: Ensure that plowing occurs in a way that maintains clear visibility and safe pathways for both drivers and pedestrians.

By designating snow pile locations and continuously removing snow during storms, you can maintain a safe and accessible parking lot. This proactive approach minimizes disruptions and ensures a smooth, efficient snow management process.

Frequently Asked Questions about Parking Lot Snow

How do you get out of snow in a parking lot?

When your vehicle is stuck in parking lot snow, there are a few techniques to help you get moving again:

• Rocking the vehicle: Shift between drive and reverse to create momentum. This helps to gradually free the car from the snow.
• Shifting gears: If you drive a manual transmission, use a higher gear to reduce wheel spin.
• Gaining traction: Place sand, kitty litter, or even car mats under the tires to improve grip.
• Shoveling: Clear the snow from around the tires and under the vehicle to create a clear path.

What is the best snow plow for parking lots?

Choosing the right snow plow depends on the size and layout of your parking lot:

• Tractor plows: Ideal for large parking lots. They cover long ranges and handle heavy lifting, making them efficient for clearing extensive areas.
• Angle plows with wings: These are great for both large and small lots. The wings help in containing snow, and the angle plowing technique ensures efficient snow removal without repeated passes.
• Backdragging attachments: Perfect for tight spaces and areas with obstacles. They allow for precise snow removal around parked cars, gas pumps, and other impediments.

How to plow efficiently?

Efficient snow plowing involves using the right techniques and planning:

• Angle plowing: This method uses the plow’s angle to push snow to one side, creating windrows. It’s effective for clearing large areas quickly.
• Windrows: By creating rows of snow, you can easily push them to designated snow pile locations, keeping main areas clear.
• Backdragging: Use this technique in tight spaces and around obstacles. It involves pulling the snow backward, ensuring no snow is left behind in hard-to-reach areas.
• Designated locations: Always push snow to designated snow pile locations. This prevents obstructions and ensures efficient use of space.

By following these tips and using the right equipment, you can maintain a safe and accessible parking lot throughout the winter months.

Conclusion

In summary, managing parking lot snow effectively is crucial for safety and accessibility during winter months. Proper preparation, the right equipment, and efficient techniques can make a significant difference in keeping your parking lot clear and safe.

At SalCorp Landscaping & Construction, we specialize in comprehensive snow management services. With over 20 years of experience, we understand the unique challenges that winter weather can bring. Our team is equipped with the latest machinery and expertise to ensure your parking lot remains functional and hazard-free.

Here are some final tips to keep in mind:

• Prepare in advance: Regular maintenance and having a snow management plan in place can save time and resources when a storm hits.
• Use the right equipment: Choose the appropriate plows and attachments for your lot size and layout to maximize efficiency.
• Prioritize safety: Always follow safety protocols, such as wearing proper gear and ensuring visibility during snow removal operations.
• Designate snow pile locations: Avoid obstructions and optimize space by planning where to pile the snow.
• Stay proactive: Continuous snow removal during storms helps prevent snow buildup and keeps your lot accessible.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer environment for your employees, customers, and visitors. If you need professional snow management services, contact us at SalCorp Landscaping & Construction. We are here to help you steer the winter season with ease and efficiency.